CASPER, WY — The City of Casper announced that a groundbreaking ceremony for the Casper Ice Arena Expansion Project will take place on Monday, Sept. 28 at 5:15 p.m. at the arena’s current location, 1801 East 4th Street. The event will be open to the public and will feature remarks from city officials, donors and partners who helped bring the project to life.
Project scope and funding
The expansion adds a second sheet of ice, effectively doubling the arena’s programming capacity. City Parks, Recreation and Public Facilities Director Zulima Lopez said the new ice surface will “significantly increase available ice time, improve scheduling flexibility, and create new opportunities for youth and adult hockey, figure skating, learn‑to‑skate programs, public skating, tournaments and special events.”
Approximately 70 % of the $17.68 million cost is being covered by private contributions and fundraising efforts, including the Put Casper on Ice Campaign. The city will provide roughly $4.33 million in cash, $1 million in in‑kind contributions, and will leverage about $12.35 million in private and partner funding.
Economic and community impact
City officials highlighted the economic upside of the expansion. By increasing capacity for local users and positioning Casper to host larger regional tournaments, the project is expected to draw visitors who will spend money at hotels, restaurants and retailers. In 2025, events at the Ice Arena generated an estimated $3.3 million in visitor spending; the expanded facility is projected to build on that figure.
“This project reflects what is possible when a community comes together around a shared vision,” Lopez said. “The strong support from donors, businesses, and community partners has made possible an investment that will expand recreation opportunities for residents of all ages, strengthen our ability to host regional events, and serve Casper for generations to come.”
Public‑private partnership
The expansion is being delivered through a unique public‑private partnership led by the Casper Amateur Hockey Club. Private donors, local businesses and community organizations have contributed substantially, demonstrating a shared commitment to quality recreation infrastructure.
The Put Casper on Ice Campaign, a community‑wide fundraising effort, has been instrumental in securing the private investment needed to move the project forward.
What to expect at the groundbreaking
The ceremony will include brief remarks from project partners and a ceremonial groundbreaking to recognize the many individuals and organizations whose support made the project possible. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the expansion plans and how the new ice sheet will benefit Casper’s families and athletes.
For additional information, residents can visit putcasperonice.com or email [email protected].
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
